Which of the following are NOT part of a neuron?
a) cell body
b) axon
c) glial leg
d) dendrite
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c) glial leg.
Neurons are specialized cells in the nervous system responsible for transmitting electrical impulses. They have distinct structures that enable them to perform their functions, and each part plays a specific role in the process of communication. Here are the key components of a neuron:
- Cell Body: The cell body, also known as the soma, contains the nucleus and other organelles necessary for the cell’s metabolic processes. It integrates signals from dendrites and, if the signal is strong enough, sends an electrical impulse down the axon.
- Axon: The axon is a long, slender projection that transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body towards other neurons or muscles. The axon is often covered by a fatty substance called myelin, which speeds up the transmission of the electrical signal.
- Dendrite: Dendrites are branched extensions of the neuron that receive signals from other neurons. They act as the input regions of the neuron and allow it to communicate with multiple other neurons at once.
- Glial Cells: Glial cells, not glial legs, are the supporting cells in the nervous system. They provide structural support, nutrient delivery, and protection to neurons. Glial cells also play a role in maintaining homeostasis and the immune response in the nervous system.
In summary, a “glial leg” is not a recognized part of a neuron, and the correct term would be “glial cells.” Glial cells play a crucial support role for neurons but are not involved in transmitting electrical impulses, which is the primary function of the neuron itself. The other structures listed—cell body, axon, and dendrite—are all integral parts of a neuron.